News

A chief constable has joined an MP and a council chief executive in a challenge to highlight the problems faced by people with disabilities.

Ian Arundale, head of Dyfed-Powys Police, took part in Brecknock Access Group’s (BAG) “big challenge”.

He, local MP Roger Williams and Powys council’s Jeremy Patterson, were asked to find their way around Brecon in a wheelchair and then in dark glasses.

Alex Robinson of BAG was impressed by how well they handled the tasks.

Mr Robinson, the group’s vice-president, said: “We think today was really constructive and we got a lot of points across.”

Mr Robinson, a wheelchair user who was injured while serving in the Army, said: “They saw a lot of the problems we have to deal with and they were sympathetic and said they would try and fix them for us.

“The chief constable is good and usually delivers what he promises.”

BAG said some people in Brecon did not take care parking their cars which often blocked drop-kerbs.

The charity also complained that its members were impeded by advertising boards and other items on pavements.

Mr Patterson said: “I was pleased to be able to take part in today’s big challenge.

“Whilst I feel access in our towns and villages across Powys has improved in recent years, it was obvious to me today that there is still work to be done to improve the current situation.

‘Simplest task’

“I am confident that the council will tackle these issues and will consult with the relevant stakeholders to ensure that the best possible results are achieved.”

Mr Williams said: “Even the simplest task of popping to town to buy a paper or a loaf of bread can cause difficulties for people with disabilities.

“Wheelchair users and people who are blind or partially sighted face particular problems when cars are parked on pavements or signs are placed in the way. New road layouts and shared surfaces also cause problems.”

Mr Arundale said Dyfed-Powys Police was working hard to ensure that “all aspects of diversity and equality are a core part of our day to day work and we recently launched a single equality scheme for the force that integrates all the strands”.

Advances in medical technology and an ageing population look set to fuel demand for wheelchairs and mobility scooters, according to a new report.

The study by California-based market research specialist BizAcumen noted that demand for wheelchairs is also being driven by changes in legislation governing accessibility to buildings and workplaces.

Furthermore, it forecast that the market will continue to grow as more baby boomers look after elderly parents while using mobility aids themselves.

In addition, there is likely to be an increase in demand for mobility scooters and wheelchairs thanks to advances in medical technology saving the lives of more adults and premature infants.

BizAcumen noted that a wide range of powered and manual wheelchairs are now available.

Thanks to the “intensive efforts” and a great deal of innovation on the part of manufacturers, it added that many wheelchairs come in more lightweight and ultra-light designs.

The UK’s largest event for homecare, disability and rehabilitation returns for its 36th year.

Held at Birmingham’s NEC, Naidex is the biggest and best opportunity to test, touch and compare the latest products and services to aid independent living.

Naidex will attract over 11,000 visitors in April, including healthcare professionals, trade visitors and members of the public. With over 360 exhibitors joining us, there will be plenty for all to see.

National Mobility Hire is planning on exhibitting and is looking forward to seeing you there.

We’ve had a bit of an overhaul on our website. Not only is this intended to enhance out users’ experience but also provide a clearer, simpler and easier to use interface that will help you to get the right information quicker.

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